9 January 2026- The tenacity of the Kuruman Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit (STESU) led to the arrest of a suspect (43) and the recovery of suspected stolen cattle valued at approximately R150 000. On 19 December 2025, the complainant reported the theft of 24 cattle that allegedly occurred between 12 and 16 December 2025, in the Deerwaard village in Bothithong.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Colonel Cherelle Ehlers said reportedly, the cattle were stolen when her spouse passed away in hospital in Kimberley. Ehlers said on 6 January 2026, investigations led the team from the Kuruman STESU to a nearby cattle post.
“A total of 9 cattle and 3 calves suspected to be stolen, were identified by the complainant. The suspect was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for the possession of the cattle and was subsequently arrested.
He is expected to appear in court soon.
“Anyone who has information regarding the incident can contact the investigating officer Detective Sergeant Paseka Bogoto at 076 521 1676, the crime stop number at 0860010111 or alternatively via the MySAPS app. All information will be treated as confidential,” she said.
Picture: Some of drugs seized by the police/Supplied
By BAKANG MOKOTO
9 January 2026- Five men aged between 33 and 42 were arrested for possession of drugs by the police in Calvinia, who were conducting crime prevention patrols. All five suspects were formally charged with possession of drugs and were released on warning to appear in court on a later date.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said although the quantity and estimated street value of the drugs seized were not substantial, the arrests highlight the vigilance, dedication and proactive policing displayed by members on patrol. Magerman said these actions underscore the daily commitment of police to combat drug-related crime and to safeguard communities.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, commended the police for their excellent work and reassured the Calvinia community that the police remain visible, active and committed to maintaining law and order. Andrews further emphasised that success in the fight against drugs is not solely measured by the quantity of drugs confiscated, but by the unwavering commitment of officers who ensure that offenders are identified, apprehended and brought before the courts.
“The SAPS Namakwa Management commends the Calvinia members for their dedication and assures the public that SAPS will continue to serve and protect communities with integrity and resolve,” he added.
Picture: Drivers urged to exercise responsibly driving/Generic
By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
9 January 2026- As the holiday season draws to a close, the South African Police Service in the Northern Cape (SAPS) has appealed to all motorists and travellers who are returning home to exercise road safety and responsible driving. The police said the traffic volumes are anticipated to increase significantly on major routes as families and holidaymakers travel back home.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said road users are advised to plan their trips in advance, allow enough time on the road and ensure that their vehicles are roadworthy before they embark on their long trips back home. Litabe said the police hereby remind drivers to obey traffic laws at all times, adhere to speed limits and avoid reckless and negligent driving behaviour such as overtaking on dangerous parts of the road and curves.
“Fatigue remains a major contributing factor to road accidents. The drivers are therefore encouraged to take regular rest breaks and to share driving responsibilities where possible. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be tolerated.
“Law enforcement officers will maintain an increased presence on the roads through ongoing high-visibility operations, including roadblocks and vehicle checks, to ensure compliance and promote safer roads. Pedestrians are also urged to exercise caution when crossing roads, particularly in high-traffic areas, and to wear visible clothing when walking at night,” he said.
Litabe further said passengers are also encouraged to wear seatbelts at all times and to report unsafe driving to the authorities. He added that the police call on all road users to work together in ensuring that everyone reaches their destinations safely.
“Responsible behaviour on the roads can save lives,” said Litabe.
9 January 2026- A man (38) was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Kuruman Regional Court for attempted murder. This comes after the accused, Bakang Baepi brutally attacked his girlfriend.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said the sentence was handed down on 7 January 2026. Pilane said the court heard that on 25 May 2024, a victim (42) was visiting the accused at his residence in Laxey village when an argument ensued between them.
“The altercation escalated into a physical confrontation during which the accused stabbed the victim multiple times with a sharp object. She managed to escape and sought assistance from a neighbour. The incident was subsequently reported to Tsineng Police Station, leading to the arrest of the suspect, who was charged with attempted murder.
“Detective Sergeant Khumoetsile Setlhauno was assigned to investigate the matter. Through his thorough and diligent investigation, Baepi was successfully convicted and sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment. The accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Meanwhile, the acting John Taolo Gaetsewe District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, commended Setlhauno for his dedication and commitment in ensuring that justice was served and that a perpetrator of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) received an appropriate sentence.
8 January 2026- Seven suspects were arrested for possession and dealing in drugs during stops and search operation conducted by the members of the Public Order Policing (POP) unit in Bergsig. The operations led to the seizure of mandrax tablets and crystal substances suspected to be tik with a combined street value exceeding R2 665.
The Namakwa District police spokesperson, Captain Ivan Magerman said all seven suspects aged between 21 and 39, were released on warnings. Magerman said they will appear in court soon.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Commissioner, Brigadier Schalk Andrews, has commended the relentless dedication of police officers on duty in the streets of Springbok, following a series of successful operations conducted on 7 and 8 January 2026. Andrews emphasized that the true measure of success lies not in the quantity and street value of the drugs, but in the unwavering dedication and commitment of police officers who patrol the streets daily to protect the communities of the Namakwa.
Picture: Three Mozambicans nabbed for being in possession of hijacked vehicle and explosives/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
6 January 2026 – The South African Police Service (SAPS) Crime Combating Unit deployed in the Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2 (Rustenburg), acting on intelligence-driven information, has arrested three Mozambican nationals, aged 19, 30 and 36, at Snake Park Informal Settlement, near Rustenburg on 5 January 2026.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adéle Myburgh said initially, two of the suspects were arrested after they were found in possession of a motor vehicle that had been hijacked in Bokamoso Informal Settlement in Rustenburg during December 2025. Myburgh said initial investigations led the police to another address in the area, where a third suspect was apprehended.
“Furthermore, he was found in possession of explosives. The suspects are expected to appear before the Rustenburg Magistrate’s Court on 7 January 2026, on charges of possession of a hijacked motor vehicle and possession of explosives. Investigations are ongoing, and further charges may be added as the case develops,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo welcomed the swift and decisive action taken by police in the district to disrupt serious and violent criminal conduct. Naidoo emphasized that this arrest and recovery of a hijacked vehicle and explosives demonstrate the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing.
“The police remain steadfast in its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all communities within the province,” he said.
6 January 2026- The Deputy Ministers of Police, Cassel Mathale and Dr Polly Boshielo alongside the North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng and the acting National Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, as well as the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, will on Tuesday and Wednesday lead crime prevention ministerial imbizo in the North West.
The imbizo aims at creating a platform for effective interaction between police, provincial leadership and communities to address Gender-based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and other crimes prevalent in the area in efforts to find lasting solutions and interventions to ensure safety and security. The event will take place at Mmabatho Civic Centre in Mahikeng at 11am.
On Wednesday, the event will take place at Ben Marais Hall in Rustenburg at 10am.
Picture: Two pit bull dogs attacked and killed a tenant/Generic
By REGINALD KANYANE
5 January 2026 – A man (39) has succumbed to his injuries after allegedly being attacked by two pit bull dogs. The incident occurred in Vryburg on 1 January 2026.
This comes after the police received a report of an inquest from Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg.
The North West police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sam Tselanyane said upon arrival, the police were directed to a surgical ward, where they found a man lying on a bed with no signs of life. Tselanyane said the deceased sustained wounds and scratches on both his hands and legs, after allegedly being bitten by pit bull dogs.
“He was transported to the hospital by Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) on 1 January 2026 at around 2:30am and he passed away on Friday evening, 2 January 2026. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.
“The deceased is believed to be a Pakistani national, who was allegedly renting a room or was a tenant at the address where the dogs attacked him. Preliminary investigations revealed that this was not the first incident in which the pit bull dogs allegedly attacked tenants at the premises and there is a pending case that is due to be heard before the Vryburg Magistrate’s Court in February 2026,” he said.
Tselanyane further said the pit bull dogs were euthanized on 3 January 2026, after consultation with the owner. He added that no arrests have been made at this stage and an inquest is being investigated.
Picture: Former Orlando Pirates Defender, Lucas Tlhomelang
By OBAKENG MAJE
5 January 2026- Former Orlando Pirates FC defender, Lucas Tlhomelang passed away at the age 49. According to information, Tlhomelang died at hospital in Klerksdorp after a long illness on 4 January 2025.
Tlhomelang who was affectionately known as Lukaround, was born and bred in Huhudi Township, near Vryburg and his family later relocated to Pudumoe village, near Taung. He played for Jomo Cosmos FC, Orlando Pirates FC, Bloemfontein Celtic FC and Mpumalanga Black Aces FC.
Picture: The North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane
By AGISANANG SCUFF
5 January 2026- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane said she has noted the significant and growing economic impact generated by the ANC’s January 8th Statement Celebration taking place at Moruleng Stadium, near Rustenburg on 10 January 2026.
Speaking on the sidelines of preparations, Lenkopane welcomed the economic opportunities created by the event.
“I am encouraged by the tangible economic activities already being generated by the ANC January 8th Statement Celebration in our province. This event goes far beyond politics — it unlocks meaningful opportunities for the local traders, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), accommodation providers, transport operators and businesses across the tourism value chain, particularly as the sector continues to recover from the effects of COVID-19.
“We invited tourists to experience the beauty of the province parallel to the celebration. We invite visitors not only to attend the celebrations, but to experience the full tourism offering of the North West, including destinations such as the Pilanesberg and other cultural and leisure attractions,” she said.
Lenkopane further said as they open the province for business, they call on all visitors and residents to respect and protect their wildlife, including rhinos, pangolins, tortoises, and all protected species and to help keep their environment clean. She added environmental protection and responsible tourism are key to attracting investment, sustaining jobs and securing long-term economic growth.
“A dedicated, multi-stakeholder task team has been appointed, led by the North West Parks and Tourism entity, to consolidate, coordinate and oversee all tourism activities related to the ANC January 8th Statement Celebration.
This structure has been put in place to ensure orderly coordination, compliance, and accountability and to decisively prevent and respond to fraudulent activities.
“The department has noted with serious concern and disappointment that certain individuals and groups are attempting to exploit this event through scams and unlawful practices. The department wishes to state unequivocally that it is working around the clock to identify, address, and eliminate such activities, while protecting visitors, service providers and local communities,” said Lenkopane.
She said in line with expanding inclusive participation, the department is also actively supporting residents who wish to convert their homes into guest accommodation. Lenkopane said all such establishments will undergo proper assessment and guidance, including grading through recognised tourism grading structures, to ensure safety, quality standards and regulatory compliance.
“Furthermore, we confirm that the department and its entities have been conducting intensive oversight visits to tourism establishments across the province, including major resorts, museums and large-scale tourism facilities. These visits have included direct engagements with tourism associations and key industry stakeholders, including Sun City, as part of readiness checks and sector coordination.
“The department encourages residents and visitors to support only licensed, regulated and compliant tourism and gambling establishments, including authorised casinos and gaming outlets,” she said.
The Guardian 